Blessed with incredible technique, supreme vision and a low centre of gravity, the former Malaga man is a player who can turn a game in an instant.

His willingness to be creative in possession makes Isco very popular among Madridistas, who would be disappointed to see him leave, especially given he’s one of a few Spanish players in the squad.

The player himself will be a little concerned by the current situation at the Santiago Bernabeu too. Isco is at a point in his career where he needs to be playing regular games and although he’ll acknowledge the quality of his team-mates, there does come a point when enough is enough, even if it means leaving a club like Real Madrid.

City would seem to make sense for the midfielder too. He’s well acquainted with Pellegrini having linked up previously, the Etihad Stadium side have an ageing midfield and Isco would immediately become one of the very best players in English football.

The key factor is whether or not Real are willing to give up on such a promising player. Benitez’s pragmatic principles mean we’re not likely to see the best of a technician like Isco under his guidance.